[Jewelry making - Article 00733] - Re: [Orchid] White gold without rhodium plating

[The Doctor]

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>         Anyway, the question that the above comment brings up is, does
>     anyone have experience with how the new silvers are accepted by
>     the customer? Do people see A-950 as higher-value than regular
>     sterling? If so, how does the perceived value compare to the cost? 

    My only experience so far has been by asking my customers' opinions
    on whether they'd be more amenable to the Argentium. These are only
    the clients who don't ordinarily buy silver jewelry. Some of them
    are interested because they've always liked silver (and its
    affordability), but just don't have time to clean up the tarnish all
    the time. The rest say they'll never buy silver jewelry, and prefer
    gold or platinum. These same people would never buy industrial metal
    jewelry, either. My guess is that it doesn't have the same "snob
    appeal." 

>          In other words, is it more or less profitable than
>     traditional sterling? Than gold? Same question for platinum silver?
>     My guess is, having platinum in it will raise the perceived
>     value... 
>
>         So, for someone first starting to work with "the other white
>     metals", which of the choices makes most sense? Any input will be
>     much appreciated! 

    With silver at $7.34, gold at $440.00 and platinum at 868.00, I'd
    say it raises the actual value, as well. But I see what you're
    asking. Because of my "snob appeal" theory, I'm betting that my
    group who haven't been attracted to sterling silver will do an
    about-face when it is presented as "platinum silver" for precisely
    the reason you mentioned; perceived value. And I also believe that,
    because of it's qualities, they'll pay a lot more for it than
    traditional sterling silver. 

    Over the next few weeks, I'll be asking around with exactly your
    post in mind, Noel". It'll be interesting to see what happens. This
    may be my excuse to get off my rear and start working with this
    material. Thanks :-) 

James in SoFl 

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